High level of false documentation feared
16 January 2003: A large number of motorists may be driving around on false documents, such as insurance, tax and NTC tests.
This fear has been expressed by RAC Ireland's Robert Taylor, following the discovery that 6 per cent of 400 cars in a recent safety check were discovered to be covered by false documentation.
Mr Taylor said that the fact that the test was voluntary, and therefore more likely to be taken by consicentious drivers, suggested that the real average could be higher.
The check in the greater Dublin Area revealed that drivers had managed to professionally photocopy and scan family or friend's insurance documents, successfully changing dates and registration numbers to make the paper work look legitimate.
The check also showed that, despite the NCT now being in situ for three years, that 60 per cent of cars failed the safety check on at least one criterion and one quarter of cars found to be on faulty tyres.
Mr Taylor said the introduction of the new driving licencing laws and a stricter Garda presence throughout the country will hopefully mean an end to the more scrupulous and 'artistic' driver.